August and September are the most ritualistic months for Ethiopians. Subsequent to the end of the three months of the rainy season, the onset of the New Year and the revival of the nature, Ethiopians celebrate a number of fascinating religious and cultural holidays that are not accustomed or observed in the other parts of the world.
Among these festivals; Ashenda, Ashendye, Shadey or Solel, Buhe, New Year, Demera, The Findings of The True Cross, the Oromo’s Thanksgiving festival, Irreechaa, Wolayta’s New Year Gifata and Hadiya’s New Year Yahode Maskqalaa as well as other numerous street festivals celebrated in mass colorfully are some.
It is very much true that festival, be it religious or cultural, is an ideal platform where varied cultures, beliefs and lifestyles are entertained, promoted and appreciated.
It is also an opportunity where one can understand and appreciate the culture of others, learn from them, be aware of his/her identity and seize a sense of pride for the diversity of his/her own culture.
Ethiopia is a country with an awesome and wonderful consolidation of different creeds, cultures and beliefs. Even if the holidays have their own purposes plus they are creed or culture centered, they are always enjoyed by larger communities with the spirit of unity, fervor, solidarity and the feeling of togetherness.
Irrespective of social, economic, educational and cultural backgrounds or religious beliefs, the holidays are cherished by Ethiopians being an ideal podium where diverse cultures are observed, shared, accepted and appreciated.
These mass celebrations do not only spot religious and cultural values. Going beyond, they play a pivotal role in upholding the shared value and collective identity, enhancing social bonding and in most cases they are ventures for promoting social transformation.
For a country like Ethiopia which faced twists and turns in the last few years, the peaceful mass celebrations flicker a ray of hope for togetherness, foster a sense of pride and strengthening national unity by raising respect and open-mindedness for other cultures.
Cultural and religious holidays are manifestations of our identity. Our holidays have key roles to shape the new generation as well as building their identity by helping them to demonstrate their way of doing things (culture) in public.Festivals like Meskel, Timket, Irreechaa, Chembalala and so many others are our unique festivals which cement our relations and glue us by the thread of unity.
Countless number of tourists frequent Ethiopia to have firsthand information about the social and cultural values of the nation. In this respect, the festivals are good ambassadors which promote our culture, unity and herald our uniqueness to the world. The Ethiopian Herald Sept 25 /2019
